What Is Gastritis?
If you’ve ever experienced a burning sensation in your stomach, nausea after eating, or unexplained indigestion, you might have had a brush with gastritis. It’s a common condition, but one that many people don’t fully understand. So, what exactly is gastritis—and what can you do about it?
What Is Gastritis?
Gastritis is the inflammation of the stomach lining. Your stomach has a protective lining made of mucus that shields it from the strong acids it produces to digest food. When this lining becomes irritated, weakened, or damaged, it leads to inflammation—what we call gastritis.
It can happen suddenly (acute gastritis) or develop gradually over time (chronic gastritis).
Common Symptoms of Gastritis
Symptoms vary from person to person. Some people have no noticeable symptoms at all, while others experience:
- Burning or gnawing feeling in the stomach
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating or a feeling of fullness
- Loss of appetite
- Indigestion
- Vomiting blood or black stools (in severe cases)
If you're experiencing persistent stomach pain or any of the symptoms above, it's a good idea to see a healthcare provider, such as a gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks.
What Causes Gastritis?
There are several potential causes of gastritis, including:
- Infection: The most common cause is Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacteria that can weaken the stomach lining.
- NSAIDs: Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen or aspirin) can irritate the stomach.
- Alcohol: Excessive drinking can erode the stomach lining.
- Stress: Physical stress from surgery, injury, or severe illness can trigger acute gastritis.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Sometimes, the immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach lining (autoimmune gastritis).
- Other Irritants: Smoking, spicy foods, or certain medical conditions can also contribute.
How Is Gastritis Diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects gastritis, they may recommend:
- A physical exam and medical history review
- Blood tests to check for anemia or H. pylori
- Stool tests for signs of bleeding or infection
- An upper endoscopy to look inside the stomach
- A breath test to detect H. pylori
Treatment Options for Gastritis
Treatment depends on the cause, but common approaches include:
- Medications:
- Antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid
- Antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection
- H2 blockers to reduce acid production
- Lifestyle Changes:
- Avoiding irritants like alcohol, smoking, and NSAIDs
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Avoid spicy, acidic, or fried foods
- Stick to a bland diet during flare-ups
With proper treatment, gastritis often improves quickly—especially when the underlying cause is addressed.
Contact a Gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks
Gastritis might sound intimidating, but it’s a manageable condition with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. If you’re dealing with persistent stomach discomfort, don’t ignore it. Getting a proper diagnosis and early treatment can help you feel better—and prevent complications down the road.
Always talk to a gastroenterologist in Thousand Oaks if you’re experiencing ongoing digestive issues.